noun

die Umfrage, -n

survey

Eine Methode, bei der viele Menschen nach ihrer Meinung oder Erfahrung zu einem bestimmten Thema gefragt werden.

Definition & meaning

An Umfrage is a systematic method of collecting data or opinions from a group of people, typically conducted through a series of questions. It is commonly translated as "survey," "poll," or "inquiry."

In practice, an Umfrage can take many forms, such as a political opinion poll to predict election results, a market research study to understand consumer preferences, or a scientific questionnaire used in social studies. The goal is usually to gather representative information about a larger population by questioning a smaller sample size.

Grammar & Word origin

The word is a feminine noun (die Umfrage). In its plural form, it becomes die Umfragen.

It is a compound noun formed from two parts:

um-: A prefix often signifying "around" or the act of encompassing an area.
Frage : The German word for "question."

Etymologically, the word literally describes the act of "asking around" among various people to gain a broader perspective or set of data.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

Befragung : This is a very close synonym often used for the act of interviewing or questioning people.
Erhebung : Often used in a more technical or scientific context to describe the collection of data.
Meinungsumfrage : Specifically refers to an "opinion poll."
Enquete : A more formal or administrative term for an inquiry or investigation.

Antonyms: There are no direct antonyms for a "survey." However, in terms of information flow, one might consider terms that imply a lack of inquiry:

Feststellung : An observation or statement of fact that does not require asking others.
Anordnung : A command or instruction, which represents a top-down communication rather than a bottom-up collection of opinions.